Taking Care of Your Teeth Before, During, and After Treatment With Cancer
You may be more prone to infection if your mouth isn't as healthy as it may be before your cancer treatment. If the infection is severe enough, it may cause treatment to be delayed. Here are some dental health recommendations from your Dentist in Duncan, SC to think about before starting cancer treatment.
Before Treatment
Make an appointment with your dentist.
Prior to beginning cancer treatment, your dentist in Duncan, SC can check your dental health and discuss which treatment choices you should consider. By addressing problem areas, you may be able to lessen the risk of oral complications from chemotherapy and radiation. Treatment options include fluoride treatments to prevent cavities, filling cavities, treating gum disease, removing infected teeth, and restoring crowns or bridgework to ensure you can chew your food.
Brush Your Teeth Frequently and Avoid Tobacco
Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice a day. You can soften your toothbrush by soaking it in warm water, and don't forget to brush your tongue! Tobacco products, on the other hand, are harmful to your body, particularly your oral health. Stopping smoking may help your body recuperate more quickly.
Consume a Variety of Nutritious Foods
Eating vitamin and nutrient-rich foods can assist strengthen your immune system. Your calorie and nutrition requirements are determined by your age, gender, physical activity level, and other health considerations. According to MyPlate, a website run by the US Department of Agriculture's Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion, A healthy diet should contain fruits and vegetables, grains, low-fat or fat-free dairy, and protein such as lean beef, skinless poultry, and fish, according to the Department of Agriculture. Include eggs, beans, peas, and legumes in your protein options. At least eight ounces of seafood per week is recommended.
Rinse your mouth frequently.
This will keep food and debris from becoming stuck between your teeth and gums. Alcohol-based rinses should be avoided. Rinsing frequently, in addition to brushing and flossing regularly, may help to lower the risk of tooth decay and infection. Rinsing is also beneficial after vomiting to prevent the acids from harming your teeth's enamel. You should also limit your intake of citrus fruits and other high-acid foods.
During
You may encounter minor to severe side effects as a result of your cancer therapy. Before getting your teeth cleaned, check with your cancer care team, especially if you have a port under your skin for medication or feeding. This is critical because patients who have a port may also take anti-blood clotting drugs, which can increase bleeding and infection risk during dentistry and medical treatments.
After
Following cancer treatment, you may experience oral difficulties or simply want a routine checkup. Don't forget to look after your mouth while you strive for optimal health. It is, after all, the doorway to the rest of your body. Here are some things to think about after you've finished your therapy.
Make an appointment with your dentist
Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are critical, so make an appointment with your dentist on a regular basis. Because saliva (spit) is necessary for cleansing the mouth of food particles and plaque, you may develop moderate to severe tooth decay as a result of the side effects of cancer therapy. Cavities may be filled, root canals performed, or crown and bridge procedures performed.
Brush on a regular basis
Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice a day. Don't forget to brush your teeth and brush your tongue.
Daily Flossing
Plaque can be removed from your teeth and gums by flossing or using another product designed to clean between your teeth once a day.
Rinse your mouth frequently
This will keep food and debris from becoming stuck between your teeth and gums. Alcohol-based rinses should be avoided. Rinsing frequently, in addition to brushing and flossing regularly, may help to lower the risk of tooth decay and infection.
Tobacco should be avoided
Tobacco products should not be used. Tobacco has a negative impact on your body, particularly your oral health.
Here at Keels Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we focus on providing quality dental care for the entire family. We offer a wide range of services, from routine checkups and cleanings to more complex procedures, such as root canals, crowns, and bridges. Our goal is to help you maintain optimal oral health so that you can enjoy a lifetime of happy, healthy smiles.
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